Tag: Kenya Politics

Hassan Joho Endorses Ruto for 2027, Declares 2032 Presidential Run

Hassan Joho has finally cleared the air. After months of speculation, the flamboyant former Mombasa governor and current Mining Cabinet Secretary has made it official — he will run for president in 2032.

At a charged rally in Garsen, Tana River County, Joho not only declared his presidential ambitions but also publicly backed President William Ruto’s re-election bid in 2027.

The announcement marks a major political realignment and signals Joho’s strategic patience. By endorsing Ruto now and sitting out 2027, Joho is positioning himself as a future contender with national appeal and political maturity.

The Hassan Joho 2032 Presidential Run is no longer a rumor — it’s a well-calculated, public declaration of intent. By endorsing Ruto now, Joho gains valuable time, influence, and visibility. He separates himself from old opposition tactics and aligns himself with power while laying the groundwork for a serious presidential bid. [Photo: Courtesy]

Why Hassan Joho 2032 Presidential Run Begins with Ruto’s Endorsement

Speaking to a sea of supporters in Garsen, Joho declared his full support for Ruto’s presidency and stated that he would only seek the presidency after Ruto completes his second term in 2032.

“We will hold William Ruto’s hand and accompany him, whatever it takes. Once he clocks 2032, we will be waiting for that seat,” Joho proclaimed, triggering loud applause.

This move puts Joho on a long-term political path, signaling the start of his national campaign. While critics have questioned ODM’s decision to collaborate with the Kenya Kwanza administration, Joho defended the shift and warned against being dragged into unnecessary political feuds.

“We from the Coast can’t be taken to a fight that is not ours. We cannot be used as weapons to fight people who are not our enemies,” he said.

By refusing to fight “other people’s battles,” Joho distanced himself from opposition hardliners still pushing confrontational politics. He also reassured President Ruto of full backing from the coastal voting bloc, saying the Head of State had already made major inroads in the region.

Joho’s Shift from Coastal Kingpin to National Contender

Joho’s rise from a Mombasa strongman to a national figure has not been accidental. In 2024, he made it clear that he had outgrown county politics and was now aiming for the top seat. He openly rejected suggestions to return to local office.

“I want to tell them I am done with Mombasa politics; I am now focusing on national politics,” Joho declared months before his appointment to the Cabinet.

His transition to the Mining docket gave him a new platform to interact with diverse communities, gain national exposure, and build alliances across party lines. His recent moves show he’s not just waiting for 2032 — he’s laying a strong foundation now.

Interestingly, ODM party leader Raila Odinga has in the past hinted that Joho would eventually be the party’s flagbearer. Raila has repeatedly said that no political seat in ODM is reserved for anyone, possibly setting the stage for an internal contest.

With Raila now warming up to a working relationship with Ruto’s government and even taking on AU roles, the ODM power vacuum could open doors for Joho to rise.

Joho, Babu Owino, and the Battle for ODM’s Future

As Raila gradually exits active politics, the race to fill his shoes is intensifying. Joho’s strategic move could place him at the front of the queue. However, he is not alone.

Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, a fellow ODM member, has also thrown his hat in the presidential ring. In April, Owino claimed that he is the only Kenyan capable of defeating Ruto in a presidential contest.

“I am overqualified for the position. I relate with the suffering of ordinary Kenyans because I have lived through their struggles,” he said.

While Owino brings youth, energy, and grassroots appeal, Joho carries experience, national connections, and a Cabinet post that could expand his reach further. The coming years may see a fierce rivalry between these two within ODM — or a surprising alliance.

But unlike Babu, Joho is not rushing. By backing Ruto in 2027, he avoids a direct fight now, builds goodwill with the current administration, and keeps ODM’s house from falling apart.

Conclusion

As the political climate shifts, the country will watch closely. Will Joho emerge as Raila Odinga’s true political heir? Will he hold the coastal bloc together while expanding nationally? One thing is clear — the 2027 election may belong to Ruto, but 2032 has a new contender, and his name is Hassan Joho.

July 2, 2025
Dennis Itumbi Tears Into The Standard Over ‘Fabricated’ Protest Report
Dennis Itumbi, a top digital strategist in President William Ruto’s inner circle, has unleashed a scathing attack on The Standard newspaper over its explosive exposé alleging a government plot to sabotage the upcoming June 25 protests.

In a strongly worded statement, Itumbi accused the media house of abandoning journalism and embracing propaganda. The exposé claimed senior government officials, police, and bloggers were coordinating to infiltrate the protests with violence and fear.

As tensions rise ahead of the planned demonstrations in memory of fallen Gen Zs, Itumbi’s furious response has reignited the debate over truth, media ethics, and government transparency in Kenya.

President Ruto and digital strategist Dennis Itumbi during a past event; Itumbi has slammed The Standard’s exposé as political fiction. [Photo: Courtesy]

Itumbi Slams Standard Over Exposé on Govt Plans to Disrupt June 25 Protests

The Standard’s investigative piece shook the country just days before the June 25 protests are expected to sweep through Nairobi and possibly other towns. The report exposed what it said was a coordinated plan by the government to flood the demonstrations with violence and confusion.

Among the explosive claims were:
- Leaked WhatsApp messages allegedly involving government officials and bloggers planning the disruption
- Mobilisation of goons to attack protesters, especially targeting women to create fear
- Digital propaganda campaigns run by UDA loyalists to discredit the protests
- Police complicity, with the National Police Service allegedly briefed on the plans despite public reassurances of safety
The exposé tied the alleged operation directly to State House, claiming the plot had blessings from the top. It revealed how a network of power—from MCAs and MPs to high-level parastatal bosses—was tasked with implementing the plan across key urban areas.

But Itumbi hit back hard. He rubbished the entire exposé as political fiction designed to discredit the government and stir public unrest. He dared The Standard to provide verifiable evidence instead of unnamed sources and screenshots.

“The Standard has weaponized journalism. This is no longer about informing the public. It’s about inciting them,” Itumbi said.

Questions Raised Over Credibility and Timing

The Standard’s report has sparked national debate—not only about the alleged plot but also about the role of the media in such a volatile moment.

Critics aligned with the government have questioned the timing of the exposé. With less than 24 hours to the planned protests, the article has inflamed tensions and drawn attention to government accountability.

“It is not a coincidence that this piece drops just before the protests. It’s a coordinated attack on the administration, hiding behind press freedom,” one senior official who requested anonymity told local press.

Others see The Standard’s revelations as a public service, exposing the potential for violence and helping Kenyans prepare or demand accountability ahead of the demonstrations.

The Kenya Editors Guild and other press freedom defenders have remained silent so far, but civil society groups are calling for an independent investigation into both the claims made and the government’s response.

If true, the exposé would confirm long-held suspicions that recent demonstrations—especially the chaotic ones—have not been organic but influenced by deeper political machinations.

June 25 Protests Still On Despite the Chaos

The June 25 demonstrations are expected to be massive, with families of fallen Gen Z protesters and leading activists vowing to proceed despite the alleged threats.

The protests are in memory of those killed during last year’s anti-Finance Bill riots, which turned deadly in several towns. One such protest on June 17 this year saw goons with sticks disrupt peaceful demonstrations, robbing civilians and looting shops. Police were accused of watching without intervening.

In some dramatic scenes, civilians turned against the attackers, beating them and ejecting them from the marches. Videos shared online showed some of the thugs limping away, bloodied and broken.

Activists have warned that any attempt to derail the upcoming protests will be met with resistance

As the country waits for Wednesday, the rift between the media and the State appears to be deepening. And at the center of it is the fierce rebuke by Itumbi.
June 24, 2025
Koimburi Abducted Himself: Police Uncover Shocking Self-Kidnap Plot

In a dramatic turn of events that has gripped the nation, Juja MP George Koimburi now stands accused of orchestrating his abduction in a bizarre ploy that authorities say wasted resources and stirred national panic.

On May 28, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, alongside DCI boss Amin Mohammed, told the public that investigations had laid bare how Koimburi abducted himself.

The unraveling of this deception has led to the arrest of three individuals, including the Juja Constituency Development Fund (CDF) chairperson, who reportedly helped carry out the staged kidnapping. Here’s how it all unfolded.

Police say the MP never went missing. From the moment he left the church to the hotel he slept in, every movement was accounted for. Surveillance footage, phone tracking, and witness statements all pointed to a well-planned lie. [Photo: Courtesy]

Juja MP Koimburi Abducted Himself in a Choreographed Plot Involving Close Associates

Police say Koimburi’s fake abduction was executed with military-like precision. The scheme began on May 25, after he attended a church service. According to DCI boss Amin Mohammed, Koimburi had mapped out every step of the drama—including the vehicle, route, and accomplices involved.

A silver Subaru Forester, which had initially been claimed to belong to the kidnappers, was actually borrowed by the CDF chairperson from another suspect. That suspect later revealed that the chair had told him the car was needed to transport extra security personnel for the MP at the church event.

In reality, the car was part of the abduction narrative. After the church service, two men posing as abductors forced Koimburi into the vehicle. They then drove him through Kabogo Road to Jacaranda Coffee Research area, where a Honda CRV was waiting. This car, owned by the CDF chair, was used to complete the act.

Investigators were able to track the entire route. They even identified the hotel and room number where the MP slept that night—evidence that contradicted earlier reports of him being held by unknown kidnappers.

Inside the Coordinated Kidnap Scene

The plot thickens with testimony from the arrested suspects. One of them said that earlier that day, he had been asked to meet at the CDF chair’s home. There, he encountered three other men, including the CDF chair, who outlined the plan. They drove together to the Full Gospel Church to map out the escape route.

Later, he was instructed to drive his own car to the church with two others. Once Koimburi stepped out of the church, the two men dragged him into the Subaru Forester. From there, they proceeded to the Jacaranda stopover where the fake handoff occurred.

This staged handoff was crucial. It gave the illusion of Koimburi being moved from one group of captors to another, a common tactic in real abduction cases. But unlike real cases, this one had a script and rehearsed players.

Police Say MP Lied to the Nation

Police leadership has strongly condemned Koimburi’s actions. Inspector General Kanja called it a reckless abuse of public trust. DCI boss Amin Mohammed didn’t mince words either.

“It is quite inconceivable for an honourable Member of Parliament to go to that extent of staging his own abduction,” Amin said. “He caused fear across the country and diverted valuable resources that could have been used to fight real crimes.”

Police say the MP never went missing. From the moment he left the church to the hotel he slept in, every movement was accounted for. Surveillance footage, phone tracking, and witness statements all pointed to a well-planned lie.

Authorities are now looking into whether Koimburi had a political or personal motive behind the fake kidnapping. What’s clear is that the case is no longer just about a missing lawmaker—it’s now about a public servant who, police say, lied to an entire country.

Wrapping Up

The phrase ‘Koimburi abducted himself’ has gone from an online whisper to a national outcry. In a country where many real kidnappings go unresolved, this stunt has drawn widespread criticism.

If found guilty, the MP could face serious charges, including conspiracy and misuse of public resources. As more details come to light, one thing is certain: this story is far from over.

May 28, 2025
Koimburi Abduction Mystery Deepens as Probe Links Case to Jimi Wanjigi Farm

The alleged abduction of Juja MP George Koimburi has taken a new turn as police investigations point to inconsistencies in the narrative, casting doubt on the authenticity of the abduction and raising serious questions about the involvement of opposition sympathizers.

At the center of the controversy is a farm owned by businessman and political figure Jimi Wanjigi, who has long aligned himself with the opposition.

As more facts emerge, it appears that the abduction tale might be part of a broader political scheme meant to discredit the government and sway public sympathy.

The involvement of Jimi Wanjigi’s farm in Koimburi’s abduction, although debunked, points to a larger political playbook where truth is bent to serve propaganda. [Photo: Courtesy]

Staged? Investigators Uncover Contradictions in Koimburi Abduction Claims

Police have now publicly cleared Ruiru Coffee Farm, owned by opposition ally Jimi Wanjigi, as the scene of the alleged dumping of MP Koimburi. According to Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, officers who visited the farm found critical inconsistencies between the scene in the viral video and the actual physical layout of Wanjigi’s property.

“The vegetation patterns and road design at the alleged location did not match those in the circulating video,” IG Kanja stated in a press briefing. “This discrepancy indicates the video was not filmed where it was claimed to be.”

Officers acted swiftly, responding to reports and conducting a thorough scene analysis. Despite reports that Koimburi had been found by a bystander near Wanjigi’s farm, police say no evidence supports this claim. The farm’s caretaker also denied witnessing anything unusual on the date in question.

Adding to the mystery, investigations revealed that Koimburi was actually driven to the hospital in his own vehicle. The woman who transported him was initially presented as a Good Samaritan, but now appears to have been part of a coordinated plan. Her account raised more questions than answers.

Hospital records have further complicated the case. The facility where Koimburi was taken has failed to provide clear documentation of his condition on arrival, especially regarding whether he had suffered physical harm or exposure to any chemical substances.

IG Kanja confirmed that forensic teams are now working to analyze digital and physical evidence. He emphasized that the police would pursue all leads, regardless of political implications.

Opposition Accused of Weaponizing Abduction Tales

This is not the first time the opposition has used stories of enforced disappearances and abductions to gain public sympathy. The Koimburi abduction claim appears to follow a familiar script—a dramatic disappearance, an emotional reappearance, and vague claims of torture or drugging.

Jimi Wanjigi’s link to this saga is not merely circumstantial. As a known sympathizer of the opposition, Wanjigi has often used his wealth and platforms to amplify anti-government narratives. His farm being falsely linked to Koimburi’s alleged dumping raises questions about how these claims were crafted and circulated.

Some political observers believe the incident was staged to create a media frenzy and depict government institutions as oppressive. The opposition has been increasingly accused of manufacturing drama to draw international attention and incite public unrest.

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua’s quick visit to Koimburi at the hospital, followed by statements alleging chemical torture, only heightened suspicions. No medical evidence has been produced to support these claims. Instead, they serve to paint the government as brutal, without accountability.

The Koimburi abduction story is beginning to unravel under the weight of facts and forensic analysis. As it stands, the evidence suggests a well-coordinated attempt to manipulate public perception, with the strategic use of locations and personalities. [Photo: Courtesy]

Jimi Wanjigi’s Role Raises More Questions Than Answers

Wanjigi, a controversial businessman with a history of run-ins with state agencies, has become a symbol of resistance for the opposition. But his connection to the Koimburi abduction story raises serious red flags.

Why was his farm named as the alleged dumping site when all forensic evidence shows otherwise? Was his property deliberately mentioned to give the story credibility? Or was the farm’s name inserted to smear Wanjigi by association?

While the police have cleared the farm, the political damage had already been done. The name “Wanjigi” trending alongside “Koimburi abduction” was no coincidence. It fits a pattern where political operatives use staged events to build narratives against perceived enemies or to turn attention away from internal failures.

Opposition leaders are yet to provide solid proof to back their claims. Instead, they continue to recycle unverified statements while discrediting police investigations. IG Kanja’s commitment to professionalism in the probe is a step in the right direction, but the campaign of misinformation has already taken root in the public mind.

Conclusion

The Koimburi abduction story is beginning to unravel under the weight of facts and forensic analysis. As it stands, the evidence suggests a well-coordinated attempt to manipulate public perception, with the strategic use of locations and personalities.

The involvement of Jimi Wanjigi’s farm, although debunked, points to a larger political playbook where truth is bent to serve propaganda.

With police confirming that the incident did not occur as claimed and inconsistencies piling up, the spotlight now shifts to those who orchestrated the drama. The nation waits for accountability—not just for Koimburi’s sake, but to safeguard the integrity of political discourse in Kenya.

May 27, 2025
Gachagua’s Resignation From UDA Escalates Explosive Fallout as Party Slams ‘Toxic’ Exit

In a stunning political clash, the United Democratic Alliance (UDA) on Monday, May 12, publicly welcomed the resignation of former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua — but not without a fierce and blistering rebuke.

What could have been a quiet political departure erupted into a war of words, with UDA branding Gachagua as divisive, backward, and unfit to lead in a modern Kenya.

While Gachagua accused the ruling party of betraying its voters, UDA countered that his exit was not only overdue but also a relief. The political rift signals a deepening fracture within Kenya Kwanza as both camps dig in.

UDA SG Omar Hassan painted the former deputy president as a relic of a bygone era — a man stuck in the past, unable to adapt to a dynamic political and economic vision. [Photo: UDA]

UDA’s Explosive Letter Tears Into Gachagua’s Leadership and Style

The ruling party did not mince words in its response. UDA Secretary General Hassan Omar issued a scathing letter that tore into Gachagua’s resignation and legacy, calling it a “futile attempt to rewrite the facts of his incompetence.”

“Through your resignation, the party has now fully offloaded a toxic, archaic, polarising and viscous individual,” Omar declared. “Though inconsequential, your public resignation from UDA is a welcome announcement to citizens that Kenya’s most divisive character is out.”

The letter, which circulated widely across social media and news platforms, accused Gachagua of failing to grasp the responsibilities of his office and of undermining the very government he once helped lead.

It painted the former deputy president as a relic of a bygone era — a man stuck in the past, unable to adapt to a dynamic political and economic vision.

In a direct hit, Omar wrote, “You failed to exhibit the shift from being a colonial auxiliary, who through hatred, in word and deed, attempted and continues to sow the seeds of division in Kenya, into a transformative leader.”

The party said Gachagua had become a political liability, unable to understand or promote the Bottom-up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), which is at the heart of UDA’s governance model.

UDA Dismisses Gachagua’s Resignation as Pointless and Invalid

Adding insult to injury, UDA dismissed Gachagua’s resignation as both irrelevant and invalid. According to the party, Gachagua technically stopped being a member in 2024 when he was impeached and removed as Deputy Party Leader.

“The ruling party officially removed one Rigathi Gachagua as its Deputy Party Leader, which automatically revoked his membership,” the party noted.

That counter-claim now fuels a legal and political tussle over whether Gachagua resigned or was already expelled. But UDA made one thing clear: his departure, however it happened, is final and beneficial to the party’s future.

Behind the harsh tone lies a deeper message — UDA wants to cleanse its image and refocus its energy on unity and development. With 2027 on the horizon, the party appears keen to distance itself from what it describes as “polarising” forces.

Gachagua Vows Political Comeback Amid Party Row

Despite the hostile response from UDA, Gachagua is not retreating quietly. In his resignation letter sent on May 12, he blamed the Kenya Kwanza administration for abandoning its promises to the people.

He pointed to broken pledges on national unity, economic inclusion, justice, and prosperity. According to him, the government had drifted into what he called a “retrogressive philosophy.”

The former deputy president has also announced plans to launch his own political party, escalating the confrontation between him and President Ruto’s allies. His next moves could reshape the political landscape ahead of the next general election.

Still, his critics argue that his political capital has dwindled. Seven months after his impeachment, he has struggled to rally significant national support.

Conclusion

The Gachagua UDA resignation debacle is more than a personal fallout. It exposes a widening rift within the ruling coalition and sharpens questions about UDA’s internal coherence.

While the party has chosen to slam the door shut with unfiltered language, Gachagua seems ready to fight back with a new political vehicle.

Whether this signals a realignment of Kenyan politics or just more noise remains to be seen — but the message from UDA is clear: Gachagua is out, and he won’t be missed.

May 13, 2025
Gachagua Set to Launch New Party Launch This Week

After months of whispers and speculation, the wait is over. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua is finally stepping into the political ring with a new party set to be launched this week.

The announcement, made during a church service in Juja on Sunday, May 11, has set tongues wagging and political calculations shifting.

Gachagua’s declaration was nothing short of explosive. Not only did he confirm the long-rumored party launch, but he also promised a grand celebration to mark the beginning of what he calls a new political dawn.

With bold words aimed at President William Ruto and an unveiled plan to consolidate Mount Kenya’s political base, Gachagua is gearing up to make a strong comeback—this time as the boss of his own political machine.

Rigathi Gachagua to Launch New Party and Challenge Kenya Kwanza Strategy

Rigathi Gachagua’s decision to form a new party is a direct challenge to President Ruto’s grip on the Mount Kenya region. The former Deputy President, ousted just seven months ago through impeachment, seems undeterred.

Instead, he is charging back with a clear mission—to protect Mount Kenya’s political voice from being diluted by Ruto’s allies. Speaking to a crowd of supporters in Juja, Gachagua made it clear that he sees Ruto’s strategy for 2027 as manipulative.

He warned that the government would try to scatter the Mount Kenya vote by propping up small political parties and fake presidential bids. “We will not accept that,” he said. “People know their party, and they will know their candidate in due time.”

Gachagua’s sharp tone left no doubt that he is ready to go head-to-head with the Kenya Kwanza administration. Sources close to his camp confirm that the much-anticipated launch is set for Thursday, March 15. The event will unveil the party’s name, slogan, and colours, with celebrations expected to follow.

In a move that surprised many, Gachagua revealed that the party will have strong leadership from Kajiado, with the national chairperson hailing from the county. This signals an attempt to expand his influence beyond the traditional Mount Kenya stronghold.

Gachagua is not just thinking about the party’s future but also about the country’s democratic health. He dismissed fears of rigging in the 2027 polls following the controversial appointment of a new IEBC commissioner.

“The polling station result is final. That’s what the Supreme Court ruled in 2013,” he said. “The IEBC just tallies. The real power lies in your vote.”

Mount Kenya Power Politics at the Heart of Gachagua New Party Launch

Mount Kenya has long been the crown jewel in any serious presidential campaign. Gachagua’s move to launch his own party is clearly aimed at keeping that jewel within his grip.

The former DP is betting big on regional loyalty and voter fatigue with broken promises. His message is simple: Mount Kenya deserves its own voice, not a borrowed one. He’s capitalizing on the growing sense of betrayal among voters in the region who feel abandoned by the current regime despite their overwhelming support in 2022.

His rhetoric paints President Ruto as a leader willing to sacrifice regional unity for political convenience. By claiming that Ruto plans to flood the mountain with decoy candidates and parties, Gachagua is presenting himself as the lone protector of the region’s political integrity.

Insiders say the new party will push for grassroots development, youth empowerment, and regional autonomy—areas where many believe Ruto has underperformed.

With Kalonzo Musyoka, Martha Karua, Eugene Wamalwa, and Fred Matiang’i already in the opposition orbit, Gachagua’s entry could reshape the entire 2027 election narrative.

New Alliances and 2027 Presidential Ambitions

While Gachagua has yet to announce his presidential ambitions, he did not rule out a joint ticket with fellow opposition leaders. “We are in talks,” a close ally revealed. “There’s growing interest in forming a grand coalition to face off with Ruto.”

If Gachagua’s party launch succeeds this week, it will mark the start of a new era in Kenyan politics—one where no region can be taken for granted, and no election is a sure bet.

Observers are watching closely. Will he team up with Kalonzo? Could Karua or Matiang’i become his running mate? Or will Gachagua take the plunge himself and go for the top seat?

One thing is certain: the Gachagua New Party Launch is more than just a rebranding—it’s a declaration of war. And as the 2027 race begins to take shape, Gachagua is making sure he’s not just in the game—he’s ready to win it.

May 11, 2025
Ruto and Raila’s Hidden Hands Behind New IEBC Nominees Exposed

The game is rigged. Behind the smiles and handshakes, a quiet plot is unfolding to control Kenya’s 2027 elections.

President William Ruto and ODM leader Raila Odinga, sworn rivals in public, are now accused of having hidden hands in the nomination of the new IEBC nominees—a move that critics say is nothing short of a political heist.

At least five out of the seven people picked by President Ruto to steer the next elections have deep ties to either the Head of State or Raila Odinga’s political machinery.

This has sparked outrage, suspicion, and warnings of a looming electoral crisis. But is this just another political tussle or a carefully calculated scheme to predetermine the outcome of 2027?

How the New IEBC Nominees Are Tied to Ruto and Raila’s 2027 Strategy

President Ruto’s nomination of Erastus Edung Ethekon as the new IEBC chair raised eyebrows immediately. Ethekon, a former Turkana County attorney, is seen by many as more than a legal expert—he is viewed as a loyalist with a direct line to State House.

Alongside him, the president appointed Registrar of Political Parties Ann Nderitu, Moses Alutalala Mukhwana, Mary Karen Sorobit, Hassan Noor Hassan, Prof. Francis Odhiambo Aduol, and Fahima Araphat Abdallah as commissioners.

But behind the official titles lies a troubling pattern. Critics argue that several nominees have either worked closely with President Ruto or have family and political connections to Raila Odinga’s inner circle.

One of the commissioners, insiders reveal, is even related to a powerful figure in Raila’s team. This convergence of political interests is fueling fears that the IEBC, the body tasked with overseeing free and fair elections, is being transformed into a puppet of the political elite.

Opposition leaders were quick to sound the alarm. Wiper party leader Kalonzo Musyoka blasted the appointments as partisan and illegal.

“We are extremely concerned that Dr.Ruto chose to be partisan by ignoring the principle of consultation and concurrence in his recommendations of the chairman and members of the IEBC,” Kalonzo said.

He warned that the new appointments had already “created a low-trust institution” and accused Ruto of plotting to rig not only the 2027 elections but also upcoming by-elections.

A Broken Promise on Consultation

One of the key criticisms of the new IEBC nominees is that President Ruto ignored the agreement struck through the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO). The NADCO report, which was hammered out between Kenya Kwanza and Azimio leaders, recommended that new commissioners be appointed through consultation and concurrence to ensure neutrality.

Yet Ruto went ahead with unilateral appointments. “He ignored our agreement. He ignored consultation. Ruto wants to be a player and the referee at the same time,” Kalonzo told mourners at the funeral of Kariobangi North MCA Joel Munuve. His words struck a chord across the political divide.

Ruto’s move not only sidelined Azimio but also undermined the spirit of bipartisan dialogue that followed last year’s protests over electoral reforms. By rejecting a consultative approach, critics argue, Ruto has set the stage for another disputed election, planting seeds of division even before campaigns begin.

A Calculated Capture of the Referee

The nomination of loyalists is more than political favoritism—it is a power strategy. With control over the IEBC, both Ruto and Raila stand to benefit from an electoral body less likely to challenge irregularities.

Political observers note that while Raila appears critical of the appointments, some of his allies have quietly endorsed them, signaling a backdoor understanding. One nominee previously served as a legal adviser to Musalia Mudavadi’s ANC party, now part of Ruto’s United Democratic Alliance (UDA).

Another nominee is tied to Raila’s political orbit through family connections. “This is not a coincidence. This is the capture of the electoral process through appointments that guarantee loyalty to the political class,” said a Nairobi-based political analyst who requested anonymity.

Kenyans are watching closely. Many fear that the IEBC’s credibility, already battered by past elections, is being buried under political deals that put partisan interests above democracy. “We are heading into 2027 with an electoral commission that answers to the highest bidder,” warned the analyst.

Opposition Vows to Defeat Ruto Despite New IEBC Nominees

Despite the odds, Kalonzo and other opposition leaders are preparing for battle. “He can as well go ahead and appoint himself as the chairman of IEBC, but we will still send him home in 2027,” Kalonzo declared, vowing to mobilize Kenyans to resist any electoral manipulation.

The opposition plans to release a comprehensive statement next week outlining its strategy. Behind the scenes, Azimio leaders are weighing legal options, public protests, and international advocacy to challenge the appointments.

But time is not on their side. With each passing day, the New IEBC Nominees move closer to assuming office, setting the stage for an electoral showdown in 2027 that could mirror or even surpass the disputes of 2007 and 2017.

Meanwhile, faith in the electoral process continues to erode. Civic groups warn that unless the appointments are reversed or subjected to public scrutiny, Kenya risks sliding into a pre-election crisis marked by protests, mistrust, and political instability.

The Stakes Could Not Be Higher

For both Ruto and Raila, 2027 is not just another election—it is a fight for political survival. Ruto seeks a second term to cement his legacy, while Raila, nearing the twilight of his political career, is determined to secure what has long eluded him: the presidency.

The battle over the New IEBC Nominees is thus not merely about who runs the electoral commission; it is about who controls the levers of power in Kenya’s fragile democracy.

As Kenyans brace for what lies ahead, one thing is clear: the independence of the IEBC is under siege. And unless bold steps are taken to reclaim it, the 2027 elections may already be lost—long before the first vote is cast.

May 10, 2025
Senator Karungo Pushes for Impeachment for Governors Running Unauthorized Bank Accounts
Kiambu Senator Karungo Wa Thang’wa has stirred fresh debate by proposing stricter grounds for impeaching governors who run unauthorized commercial bank accounts.

His bold move directly targets Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi, accused of overseeing multi-billion shilling embezzlement in the county.

Speaking after a Senate Committee on Devolution meeting, Karungo declared that many county governments violate the law by maintaining bank accounts not approved by the National Treasury.

His proposal could shake up governance in counties, ensuring tighter controls on public funds. As pressure mounts, governors may soon face new legal battles to keep their positions.

Governors will have to tighten their financial practices or face the real threat of impeachment. For now, all eyes are on Kiambu and the next moves of Governor Kimani Wamatangi. Kiambu alone operates 276 commercial accounts, while Baringo manages 304. [Image: Screenshot]

Karungo Calls for Tougher Rules on Impeachment for Governors

Senator Karungo’s proposal centers on closing loopholes that allow governors to misuse public funds. He highlighted that the Constitution and financial regulations strictly prohibit counties from operating commercial bank accounts without Treasury approval. However, the law is often ignored.

“Should this be an impeachable offense? Regulation 82(1)(b) of the Public Finance Management (County Governments) Regulations prohibits counties from operating commercial bank accounts. Yet, almost all counties have gone rogue,” Karungo said.

He singled out Kiambu and Baringo counties as the worst offenders, revealing that Kiambu alone operates 276 commercial accounts, while Baringo manages 304. These numbers, according to Karungo, show just how widespread the breach is.

The Senate Committee has taken steps to push counties into compliance. The Controller of Budget (CoB) and the Auditor General have been directed to issue a circular demanding full disclosure of all commercial bank accounts under county control.

“The Committee has now directed the CoB and the Auditor General to issue a circular to all counties, compelling them to disclose all commercial bank accounts under their control,” Karungo emphasized.

The senator’s plan to make unauthorized bank accounts a new ground for impeachment aims to put governors on notice. He believes that without firm penalties, counties will continue operating outside the law.

Debate Heats Up as Governors Defend Their Actions

Karungo’s proposal has drawn criticism from some county leaders. Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa, who chairs the Council of Governors’ Finance, Planning, and Economic Affairs Committee, defended the use of commercial bank accounts in certain cases.

“Represented the council of governors at a Senate forum deliberating the role of commercial bank accounts by counties. Often misreported, the law allows counties to operate such accounts—for health facilities under the FIF Act, revenue collection, imprest, and donor-funded projects,” Barasa explained.

This defense shows a gap between lawmakers and county officials regarding the interpretation of financial laws. While Barasa claims legal backing for some accounts, Karungo argues that the widespread misuse of these accounts has fueled corruption and mismanagement.

Karungo’s direct attack on Governor Kimani Wamatangi highlights the growing tensions in Kiambu. Wamatangi faces allegations of embezzling billions through unauthorized transactions, putting him squarely in the senator’s crosshairs.

The History of Impeachment for Governors in Kenya

Kenya’s Constitution outlines four main grounds for impeaching a governor:
1. Gross violation of the Constitution.
2. Commission of a crime under national or international law.
3. Abuse of office or gross misconduct.
4. Physical or mental incapacity to perform official duties.
Senator Karungo’s proposal, if passed, would introduce a fifth ground—operating unauthorized commercial bank accounts. This move could redefine accountability in county leadership.

Since the 2010 Constitution came into effect, 11 governors have faced impeachment motions. However, only three governors have been successfully impeached: Mike Sonko of Nairobi, Ferdinand Waititu of Kiambu, and Kawira Mwangaza of Meru. These cases underline the challenge of pushing through impeachment despite evidence of wrongdoing.

Karungo’s proposal may make it easier to hold governors accountable, but it also raises questions about the balance between oversight and political witch-hunts. Critics argue that without clear guidelines, new impeachment grounds could be abused for political gain.

What Lies Ahead

The Senate Committee’s directive for counties to disclose their bank accounts is only the first step. If Karungo’s plan gains traction, Kenya could see a significant shakeup in county governance.

Governors will have to tighten their financial practices or face the real threat of impeachment. For now, all eyes are on Kiambu and the next moves of Governor Kimani Wamatangi.

As Karungo’s proposal picks up momentum, it sends a strong message—no governor is above the law, and financial accountability is non-negotiable.

The coming months will reveal whether the push for new impeachment grounds gains enough support to become law, setting a new standard for county leadership across Kenya.
May 3, 2025